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IKEA: the global furniture giant shows its softer side

IKEA is synonymous with affordable, flat packed furniture. The yellow and blue branding has become an icon of the modern consumer era and can be seen in many countries throughout the world. But, the good news is that the Swedish furniture giant is now doing its bit for society by applying its design philosophy to those in need. Enter stage left the flat pack emergency shelter.

IKEA shelter via Inhabitat

Historically the United Nations refugee agency (UNHCR) has used tents to accommodate the displaced. But these canvas tents provide no insulation causing them to be hot in the day and freezing at night. They have no electricity, lighting or heating and are typically overcrowded as they are only designed to accommodate two people.

To address the problem the UNHCR collaborated with the IKEA Foundation (the philanthropic arm of the business) to develop a more durable and functional solution.

IKEA shelter via Inhabitat

Their solution is a flat packed, semi rigid structure made up of panels that deflect heat during the day but retain it at night. It houses 5 people, can be assembled in four hours without tools and includes flexible solar panels on the roof to provide electricity for lighting. The structure also has a life span of five years or more which is a big plus considering the average time that people live in a refugee camp is 12 years. Compare that to the canvas tent which sometimes only lasts 6 months and IKEA’s solution seems very attractive.

But as with all new products, the structure doesn’t come without a few shortcomings. Transport is an issue as the units weigh 100kg each which is almost double that of the traditional tents. The cost, once they are produced on a large scale, is also double the price at $1000.

But the ultimate test is yet to come. The UNHCR is about to test prototype units in the field by placing them in refugee camps in Ethiopia, Iraq and Lebanon. If this goes well they will be rolled out on a larger scale.

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We're a bunch of like-minded industrial designers + engineers who congregate each work day at Cobalt Design in Melbourne, Australia. We have developed this blog because we believe that designers have a social responsibility to improve the world that we live in. Through this blog we aim to chronicle our thoughts on the topic, bring you the latest news and oggle over design that we feel is creating a better world. We hope you enjoy.

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